Top Picks: The Netflix documentary 'Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower,' the Skyview app, and more
Social crosscurrents
Asghar Farhadi has become an acclaimed director and writer after releasing films such as “A Separation” and “The Past.” His latest is The Salesman, which won the Oscar for best foreign language film and centers on a woman, Rana (Taraneh Alidoosti), who is assaulted. After her husband, Emad (Shahab Hosseini), discovers the attacker, Monitor film critic Peter Rainer writes that “the film opens out into a full-scale dramatization of the social, political, and religious crosscurrents that have roiled ... so much of Iranian society.” It’s available on DVD and Blu-ray.
Rallying teen
The new documentary Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower tells the story of Joshua Wong, a young man from Hong Kong who becomes involved in an Occupy movement in the area in 2014, protesting the actions of the Chinese Communist Party. Wong attempts to get people his own age involved in his fight. “Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower” is available to stream on Netflix. Viewers should be aware of some strong language.
Seeing stars
When you’re stargazing this summer with your family, learn even more about what you’re seeing with the Skyview app, which can identify satellites, constellations, and stars. If you’re out on a hike, don’t worry – Wi-Fi isn’t needed. The app is free for iOS and Android.
Pet planning
When it comes to a natural disaster, you probably know how to prepare for yourself and your family, but you may not be as knowledgeable about how to help your pets. The ASPCA Pet Safety app has information on what to do before, during, and after the event. It’s free for iOS and Android.
Animated series
Japan’s Studio Ghibli has released some of the most acclaimed animated movies of all time, with director Hayao Miyazaki (pictured) having created films such as “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro,” and “Castle in the Sky.” Those films and more are returning to theaters as part of Studio Ghibli Fest 2017, which will kick off June 25 with “My Neighbor Totoro.” Check out www.fathomevents.com to see if the films will be playing at a theater near you.
